Manchester City have emerged as the leaders in the race to sign Villarreal defender Pau Torres this summer, according to journalist Xavi Jorquera Martinez.
The 25-year-old is expected to leave the Yellow Submarine during the transfer window following another fine season in La Liga, as well as Europe.
Torres played an integral part in Villarreal's shock run to the Champions League semi-finals in 2021-22, where Unai Emery's side were eventually knocked out by Liverpool in a thrilling tie.
The Spain international played 46 games across all competitions in total, and his form during those outings has led to interest from the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona and Manchester United this summer, according to reports.
Spurs initially failed with their attempts to sign Torres last year, whilst Barca have recently identified him as a potential alternative to Jules Kounde, who seems bound for Chelsea as things stand.
However, Pep Guardiola's side appear to be the new frontrunners according to the Villarreal-based journalist, as the City boss continues to strengthen his squad following the arrivals of Stefan Ortega, Erling Braut Haaland, Julian Alvarez and Kalvin Phillips.
The Premier League champions already boast the services of Ruben Dias, John Stones, Aymeric Laporte and Nathan Ake in central defence as things stand, although the latter's future at the Etihad Stadium remains up in the air despite seeing a potential return to Chelsea break down earlier in the window.
Matthew Tranter
